Does my Child has Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD)?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a coxsackie virus. It is most common in children under 10 years of age. It can occur all year round in Singapore.

How do I know my Child has HFMD?

The Signs and symptom of Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD). Usually start suddenly. It includes fever, sore throat, headache,small painful blisters inside the mouth on tongue, palate, palms of child’s hands, on their fingers,on the soles of their feet , buttocks.

It can last anywhere between 4 – 10days. Child can also find it painful to swallow especially with blisters in the mouth. It is possible to have the infection and not have any symptoms

How is Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD) spread?

Direct and indirect contact with nose and throat secretions and stool of an infected person. Breathing in air contaminated with the virus after an infected person has coughed or sneezed. Touching the nose and throat secretions of an infected person and then touching own eyes, nose, or mouth.

Spreads very easily in child care facilities and where children are close together

What is the Incubation period of Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD)?

Usually 3 – 6 days from contact with an infected person to start developing symptoms.

Is Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD) Contagious?

During the stage of acute illness, usually for about 7 – 10 days. The virus can be found in stool for 4 weeks after start of illness

How to prevent Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD) from spreading?

Chilcare or school generally conduct regular checks for this.

Child can attend school or child care if the child feels well enough to take part in activities.

Usually a letter of clearance from a doctor is required by the school before a child can go back after HFMD infection.

Carefully dispose of (or clean, if applicable) articles soiled by discharge from an infected child’s nose and throat or stool. Clean and disinfect all common toys and surfaces. Clean and disinfect diaper change area after each diaper change.